Since Venturing is a youth-led program, the leadership structure above the unit is youth-inspired and youth-led. The youth organize program events, lead entertaining training sessions, and provide forums to bring together crews across the council. The Venturing Officers' Association, or VOA, comprises a team of youth officers supported by advisors. It provides leadership opportunities that prepare young people for their respective futures and gives them a voice to help strengthen the Venturing program. For questions about the SHAC Venturing Officers Association (VOA), contact an officer.
About the Venturing Officer's Association (VOA)
The Venturing Officer's Association (VOA) provides opportunities for adventure, leadership, personal growth, and service (A-L-P-S). By doing so, they serve as models of best practices in programming for local crews and provide a program resource for Venturers and Advisors throughout the VOA’s area of operation. VOAs offer opportunities for personal growth and leadership for their officers, just as the leaders and members of the VOA provide programming of interest to their constituents. A strong VOA has a positive correlation with strong crews. Program and training events offered by the VOA give Venturers the chance to meet other Venturers, build friendships and networks, learn from their experiences, and have fun! The purpose of VOAs is not to hold meetings, but to provide fun and informative program opportunities for Venturers. In many ways, the VOA serves as a forum for planning and implementing outstanding programs. The VOA officers and advisors know they have done their job well when they see that the efforts of the VOA have served to strengthen the Venturing program in their area of operation.